Chapter 959:

Elyse nodded and accompanied Edward toward the back exit of the music hall. Meanwhile, Quinn had finished packing his things and went to find Fiona, but she was nowhere to be seen. After searching the music hall, he found her in the restroom.

Standing outside the women’s restroom, Quinn eyed the sign with concern. He asked anxiously, “Are you alright? Why are you crying? What happened? Tell me.”

Fiona continued to cry without responding. Quinn hesitated, torn about whether to enter. Ultimately, with few people around, he decided to go in, thinking he wouldn’t be noticed. Inside, he found Fiona by the sink, dabbing at her tears. Scratching his head nervously, he inquired, “Why are you crying? Did I upset you?”

Fiona shook her head, looking miserable. “It’s not you. It’s something else.”

Quinn appeared confused. “Don’t say that. What’s the matter? Tell me, and I’ll help you.”

Fiona lifted her gaze, her eyes red and puffy, and wept. “It’s Elyse. She said something hurtful about me.”

Quinn’s brow furrowed. “What did she say?”

Fiona cried a bit more, then continued woefully, “She said I’m a failure, that I shouldn’t even be playing the violin. She told me to leave the music hall and stop being a pain in the ass.”

“Just because she ranked first, does she think she can scorn everyone?” Quinn felt a surge of anger. He struggled to believe Elyse could be so cruel.

Meanwhile, Elyse entered Edward’s car and immediately sensed something was off. This strange feeling lingered until they disembarked. Standing in front of the imposing building in the town center, her discomfort intensified. She gazed at the structure. Each time she returned to her hotel, she could see this edifice. Gavin had once told her it was the governor’s residence and also served as an office building—a central hub for the city’s activities known as the Moon Palace.

After exiting the car, Edward straightened his clothes and said, “We’ll switch to another car.”

Elyse turned back slowly and asked, “Why?”

“The seats in this one are uncomfortable. The next one will be more luxurious.”

Edward neglected to mention that this car lacked whiskey, but the next one would be stocked.

Pointing at the Moon Palace, Elyse voiced her concern, “Are you taking me inside there?”

“Yes, but the garden is somewhat small. If it’s not to your liking, I can take you to the suburbs where the garden is larger,” Edward replied with a grin.

Elyse’s expression grew complex. “The Moon Palace isn’t a place just anyone can access, is it?”

“I understand, but considering our relationship, we’re almost like friends, right?” Edward answered, his expression brightening. . . .